By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan | Philippine News Agency
National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin told his subordinates to be professional in performing their duties and responsibilities during the May 12 midterm elections.
At the same time, Aberin assured that the Metro Manila cops are all set to secure the national and local polls.
“In accordance with the strict instructions of the chief PNP (Philippine National Police) Gen. Rommel Marbil, let us promote the sacredness of the electoral process by ensuring that we will be professional in dispensing our security duties,” Aberin said in a statement over the weekend.
“Let us give the people an environment where they can exercise their right to suffrage freely, without fear, influence and intimidation.” he added.
The NCRPO chief also said that police presence at polling sites must reflect not only the authority of the PNP but also the public’s hope for a fair, honest, and peaceful elections.
On April 2, Marbil said the entire PNP will be under full alert status from May 3 to May 15 to secure the elections. Under such circumstances, police officers are not allowed to go on leave to ensure sufficient deployment.
Aberin reminded the NCRPO of the five guiding principles: observe the basics in crime prevention and solution; strict adherence to police operational procedures; choose to do what is right, even in challenging situations; avoid any form of illegal activity, regardless of circumstances; and actions guided by faith and closeness to God.
He also said that misconduct and irregularity will not be condoned and will be penalized severely based on evidence. (PNA)
